Federal program to help rural fire department ends

Some fire departments concerned about changes

A federal program that helps rural fire departments get equipment has ended.

Affected departments are now desperately searching for ways to pay for what they need to protect their communities.

"I thought it was a joke, I honestly did" said Guthrie Fire Chief Eric Harlow.

The Guthrie Fire Department recently obtained two trucks through the program.

Harlow said the cost to the department was approximately $125,000; however, the estimated cost in absence of the program would have been around $500,000.

The end of the program stems from an agreement with the Environmental Protection Agency, due to changes in engine standards. The decision affects hundreds of fire departments across the state.

Harlow said his department is fortunate since the two trucks it recently acquired prior to the program's termination still have a lot of life left in them.

He is concerned, though, for neighboring volunteer firefighters who already shoulder much of the financial responsibilities of their departments and who will likely be forced to rely on Guthrie resources more heavily as their equipment continues to age.

"These guys are using their own money out of their wallet to help equip these trucks just to get them barely functioning enough to fight fires," Harlow said. "To them, this program is the only equipment they can get."

Harlow said he plans to talk with lawmakers to see what can be done moving forward. He also hopes Logan County voters extend the term of the county's fire sales tax in August to continue to help departments across the county get the funds they need.